[Click! Health] Bracelet and Sticker Mosquito Repellents Are Not Approved Quasi-Drugs

Proper Use of Mosquito Repellents and Hair Removal Products in Summer

Mosquito repellents and depilatories are frequently used quasi-drugs and cosmetics during the summer vacation season. When purchasing quasi-drugs, you must check for the "quasi-drug" label on the product container or packaging. For depilatories classified as cosmetics, you should use products labeled as functional cosmetics.

Bracelet and sticker-type mosquito repellents are not approved quasi-drugs

Mosquito repellents do not kill mosquitoes (no insecticidal effect) but use ingredients that mosquitoes dislike to block their approach. They are applied thinly on exposed skin or clothing or sprayed on.

Care should be taken not to use them on underwear, around the eyes and mouth, on wounds or inflamed areas, or on skin that is heavily sunburned. Also, do not use them in enclosed spaces to avoid inhalation. After outdoor activities, wash the skin where the repellent was applied or sprayed thoroughly with soap and water, and immediately wash clothes and socks.

Depending on the active ingredient (main component), some products are not suitable for infants or young children. When using on children, carefully check the instructions and precautions on the product before use.

Mosquito repellents generally provide protection for 4 to 5 hours, and using more than necessary may cause side effects.

There are cases where people mistakenly purchase "scented bracelets or stickers (industrial products)" as mosquito repellents. Currently, there are no approved quasi-drug mosquito repellents in bracelet or sticker form. When purchasing mosquito repellents, do not buy bracelet or sticker-type products.

Do not use prickly heat and intertrigo treatments around the eyes

In the hot summer, topical powders, zinc oxide ointments, and calamine or zinc oxide lotions can be used on the skin to relieve and improve prickly heat and intertrigo. Topical powders should be applied after bathing or before bedtime on clean skin, avoiding use around the eyes, wounds, eczema, or other abnormal areas.

Zinc oxide ointments and calamine/zinc oxide lotions are applied directly to the affected area or on gauze. When using lotions, shake well before use. Zinc oxide may delay tissue recovery on wounds. Do not use on severe or extensive burns, infected areas, wounds, moist lesions, or on the eyes or mucous membranes around the eyes.

Calamine and zinc oxide lotions should be used cautiously if allergic symptoms have occurred, if the user or their family has an allergy-prone constitution, or if erosion (intertrigo) is severe. Especially in children, use with caution as it may cause convulsions.

If the prickly heat or intertrigo treatment is accidentally ingested or if symptoms do not improve after 5 to 6 days of use, discontinue use. If it gets into the eyes, rinse immediately with water and seek treatment from an ophthalmologist.

Ventilate after using antiperspirants (quasi-drugs)

Quasi-drug antiperspirants are topical agents intended to suppress sweat production and prevent body odor, available as aerosols, liquids, and solid topical forms (sticks).

Cosmetic deodorants (such as deodorants) minimize body odor caused by bacteria breaking down sweat by masking it with fragrance or absorbing sweat.

For usage by formulation: Aerosols should be shaken well before use and sprayed for about 2 seconds from a distance of at least 15 cm from the underarm area. Liquids and solid topical forms (sticks) should be applied in an appropriate amount to the underarms and gently rubbed in. After application, allow the product to dry completely before putting on clothing.

Especially for aerosols, do not spray on clothing, avoid inhaling the spray gas, and always ventilate the area after use in enclosed spaces.

Do not use depilatories during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Depilatories used to remove body hair are functional cosmetics and come in forms such as creams, lotions, and aerosols. Physical hair removal products like tapes and waxes are not cosmetics.

Before use, apply a small amount of the depilatory to the desired area and observe for about a day to check for any abnormal reactions such as itching. When depilating, wash the area thoroughly, dry it, and apply enough product to cover the hair completely. After 5 to 10 minutes, wipe or wash off with a wet towel or non-woven fabric. If hair is not completely removed, wait 2 to 3 days before reapplying.

Using depilatories together with products containing alcohol or sunbathing immediately after depilatory use may cause skin rash or other reactions. Therefore, wait at least 24 hours after using a depilatory before using alcohol-containing products or sunbathing.

Especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menstruation, when hormonal changes may occur, it is best to avoid using depilatories. If you experience stinging, discomfort, or irritation during use, immediately wipe off the product and rinse with cold water. If symptoms persist or if swelling, redness, itching, or dermatitis appear, consult a doctor or pharmacist.